Bellator FC: Time for Some Real Competition!

mmaaddict · April 1, 2021

:::The media are gathered together at a press conference where they were promised to find out who Viacom had chosen as their new President of Operations for Bellator FC. Last week Scott Coker was shockingly let go by Viacom amid rampant rumors of some sketchy dealings backstage, which given the stagnation of the ratings was not going to be tolerated.

Viacom's VP of Business adjusts the microphone and asks the media to give a warm welcome to the new President of Operations at Bellator FC, retired fighter...Nate Quarry.

The announcement surprises the crowd of media members certainly, but it doesn't hold the blockbuster appeal they were hoping for. Nate Quarry is an alumni of the first ever Ultimate Fighter season. Quarry is a known advocate of fighters who once participated in a class action lawsuit against the UFC for their business practices.:::

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Quarry: I appreciate Terry here, and all the executives from Viacom who have given me this opportunity to take over the reigns of a fight organization in Bellator that is world class, but has never been run the right way to prove it.

Viacom took a chance on me as a virtual unknown in the business world, because they know I know the fight game, and they know I'm the kind of guy fighters will want to work with and work for.

It's no secret that I took offense to many of the practices of the UFC with their fighters, and now it's time for a real competitor to rise up and take the reigns from them.

I'm not promising that it's going to happen overnight, but I am standing here telling you right now, that before I am done with this job Bellator will be the number one mixed martial arts organization in the world. And we're going to do it the right way. Not by putting on sideshow fights for ratings grabs, but by promoting and pushing the immense talent in Bellator and showcasing these guys as some of the best fighters in the world, which is exactly what they are.

We're going to take care of our fighters here in Bellator from here on out, and in turn the fighters are going to take care of Bellator by taking us places we've never been before. I am a firm believer that if we put great fights on TV people will watch it!

I'm sure Dana White is out there somewhere laughing at all this right now. I promise you though that it's a new day for Bellator FC and this marks the beginning of a new era, an era that will see us as a team, taking the MMA world by storm.

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:::Nate sits the microphone down with an air of quite confidence, turns to shake the hand of the Viacom exec and exits the stage as the media members buzz talking with each other about what Nate Quarry just had to say.:::

vladjarca · April 2, 2021

Well, this seems great!

CageRage · April 2, 2021

Looking forward to this.

mmaaddict · April 2, 2021

Thanks guys, I am looking forward to giving this a go. Will have first couple cards posted tonight and results before the end of the weekend hopefully.

mmaaddict · April 3, 2021

:::For the second time in the last week we have a full house in the Bellator media room, as the press has been promised an announcement of the first two cards in the new era of Bellator. The new Bellator President, Nate Quarry, comes out and takes his place at the podium.:::

Quarry: We’ve been busy at work over the first couple of days working to start this new era of Bellator off to a strong start. We’re here today to announce our first two cards and the main events for those. But first, we have a signing to announce.

Looking to add quality contenders to the Heavyweight division, we have signed Junior dos Santos. Last week I told you we are in the business of making great fights, not just putting guys out there who have a name to draw ratings. While some may believe that Junior is washed up, I fully believe after talking to him that he has a lot left to give this sport and I am pleased that Bellator can offer him a place to prove that to everyone.

Just to give you something to look forward to, we are already in negotiations to put together Junior’s first fight in Bellator…against Fedor Emelianenko.

:::The media room buzzes at the announcement of that fight. One member of the media stands and asks Nate about whether we should expect Alistair Overeem to come along too.:::

Quarry: At this point in time we are not going to be bringing in Alistair Overeem. While we do wish him all the best, I am not as convinced that he has a lot to give as I am with Junior. I’d love if he went somewhere and proved me wrong, but right now we are not going to be offering a contract to him.

Now onto the business at hand, let’s talk about some fights…

The first card of the new era will take place on the second Friday of March in California and will feature a main event for the middleweight title between Gegard Mousasi and John Salter. At this point Salter’s 8 – 1 record in Bellator is too good to ignore and he’s earned this shot, which is what this new Bellator is all about. We’ll also have a co-main event on that card of two Light Heavyweight’s debuting between Yoel Romero and Viktor Nemkov.

Two weeks after this will be our second offering taking place in Colorado and featuring a rematch for the Women’s Featherweight Title between Cris Cyborg and Julia Budd. We feel as though Budd has earned another chance at Cyborg and expect another great fight between the two. Meanwhile we’ll also see Timothy Johnson and Josh Barnett fight on this card, as well as Cat Zingano taking on Leslie Smith which may well determine the next Women’s Featherweight contender.

:::Quarry answers a few more questions about specific fighters from the media before the press conference ends with some proper anticipation for what’s to come.:::

mmaaddict · April 3, 2021

Bellator 255 Full Card

Main Event

Middleweight Title Fight

Gegard Mousasi (47-7-2, 5-1) vs. John Salter (18-4, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Yoel Romero (13-5, 0-0) vs. Vadim Nemkov (30-7-1, 0-0)

Main Card

Daniel Strauss (26-9, 12-6) vs. Pedro Carvalho (11-4, 2-1)

Vanessa Porto (22-8, 0-0) vs, Mandy Bohm (7-0-1, 1-0)

Sidney Outlaw (15-4, 1-1) vs. Ryan Quinn (14-7-1, 8-1)

Preliminary Card

Alan Omer (24-5, 1-0) vs. John Teixeira (23-5-2, 6-2)

Javy Ayala (11-8, 6-4) vs. Shawn Teed (6-3, 0-1)

Jessica Miele (9-5, 1-2) vs. Marina Mokhnatina (4-2, 0-1)

Guilherme Vasconselos (10-6, 3-3) vs. Walter Gahadza (16-8, 2-3)

Tony Johnson (9-2, 0-0) vs. A.J. Matthews (9-9, 5-7)

Colleen Schneider (11-8, 1-1) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5, 1-1)

vladjarca · April 3, 2021

Middleweight Title Fight

Gegard Mousasi (47-7-2, 5-1) vs. John Salter (18-4, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Yoel Romero (13-5, 0-0) vs. Vadim Nemkov (30-7-1, 0-0)

Main Card

Daniel Strauss (26-9, 12-6) vs. Pedro Carvalho (11-4, 2-1)

Vanessa Porto (22-8, 0-0) vs, Mandy Bohm (7-0-1, 1-0)

Sidney Outlaw (15-4, 1-1) vs. Ryan Quinn (14-7-1, 8-1)

Preliminary Card

Alan Omer (24-5, 1-0) vs. John Teixeira (23-5-2, 6-2)

Javy Ayala (11-8, 6-4) vs. Shawn Teed (6-3, 0-1)

Jessica Miele (9-5, 1-2) vs. Marina Mokhnatina (4-2, 0-1)

Guilherme Vasconselos (10-6, 3-3) vs. Walter Gahadza (16-8, 2-3)

Tony Johnson (9-2, 0-0) vs. A.J. Matthews (9-9, 5-7)

Colleen Schneider (11-8, 1-1) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5, 1-1)

Bellator 256 Full Card

Main Event

Women's Featherweight Title

Cris "Cyborg" Justino (23-2-1, 2-0) vs. Julia Budd (14-3, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Timothy Johnson (15-6, 4-0) vs. Josh Barnett (35-8, 0-0)

Main Card

Leslie Smith (12-8-1, 2-1) vs. Cat Zingano (11-4, 1-0)

Soren Bak (14-1, 1-0) vs. Brent Primus (10-1, 8-1)

Magomed Magomedov (17-1, 1-0) vs. Josh Hill (20-3, 2-0)

Preliminary Card

Iony Razafiarison (6-3, 1-2) vs. Sarah D'Alelio (11-7, 0-0)

Maxim Shvets (17-3, 0-0) vs. Khonry Gracie (2-2, 0-1)

Julius Anglickas (9-1, 2-0) vs. Nick Roehrick (7-1, 0-0)

Reina Cordoba (10-1, 0-0) vs. Jaimelene Nievera (5-3, 2-1)

Teodor Nikolov (11-2, 0-1) vs. Robin Van Roosmalen (2-0, 0-0)

Johnny Eblen (6-0, 2-0) vs. Ibrahim Mane (7-2, 0-0)

McDojoDelux · April 3, 2021

Main Event

Middleweight Title Fight

Gegard Mousasi (47-7-2, 5-1) vs. John Salter (18-4, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Yoel Romero (13-5, 0-0) vs. Vadim Nemkov (30-7-1, 0-0)

Main Card

Daniel Strauss (26-9, 12-6) vs. Pedro Carvalho (11-4, 2-1)

Vanessa Porto (22-8, 0-0) vs. Mandy Bohm (7-0-1, 1-0)

Sidney Outlaw (15-4, 1-1) vs. Ryan Quinn (14-7-1, 8-1)

Preliminary Card

Alan Omer (24-5, 1-0) vs. John Teixeira (23-5-2, 6-2)

Javy Ayala (11-8, 6-4) vs. Shawn Teed (6-3, 0-1)

Jessica Miele (9-5, 1-2) vs. Marina Mokhnatina (4-2, 0-1)

Guilherme Vasconselos (10-6, 3-3) vs. Walter Gahadza (16-8, 2-3)

Tony Johnson (9-2, 0-0) vs. A.J. Matthews (9-9, 5-7)

Colleen Schneider (11-8, 1-1) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5, 1-1)

mmaaddict · April 4, 2021

Bellator 256: Cyborg vs. Budd II Full Card

Main Event

Women's Featherweight Title

Cris "Cyborg" Justino (23-2-1, 2-0) vs. Julia Budd (14-3, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Timothy Johnson (15-6, 4-0) vs. Josh Barnett (35-8, 0-0)

Main Card

Leslie Smith (12-8-1, 2-1) vs. Cat Zingano (11-4, 1-0)

Soren Bak (14-1, 1-0) vs. Brent Primus (10-1, 8-1)

Magomed Magomedov (17-1, 1-0) vs. Josh Hill (20-3, 2-0)

Preliminary Card

Iony Razafiarison (6-3, 1-2) vs. Sarah D'Alelio (11-7, 0-0)

Maxim Shvets (17-3, 0-0) vs. Khonry Gracie (2-2, 0-1)

Julius Anglickas (9-1, 2-0) vs. Nick Roehrick (7-1, 0-0)

Reina Cordoba (10-1, 0-0) vs. Jaimelene Nievera (5-3, 2-1)

Teodor Nikolov (11-2, 0-1) vs. Robin Van Roosmalen (2-0, 0-0)

Johnny Eblen (6-0, 2-0) vs. Ibrahim Mane (7-2, 0-0)

McDojoDelux · April 4, 2021

Main Event

Women's Featherweight Title

Cris "Cyborg" Justino (23-2-1, 2-0) vs. Julia Budd (14-3, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Timothy Johnson (15-6, 4-0) vs. Josh Barnett (35-8, 0-0)

Main Card

Leslie Smith (12-8-1, 2-1) vs. Cat Zingano (11-4, 1-0)

Soren Bak (14-1, 1-0) vs. Brent Primus (10-1, 8-1)

Magomed Magomedov (17-1, 1-0) vs. Josh Hill (20-3, 2-0)

Preliminary Card

Iony Razafiarison (6-3, 1-2) vs. Sarah D'Alelio (11-7, 0-0)

Maxim Shvets (17-3, 0-0) vs. Khonry Gracie (2-2, 0-1)

Julius Anglickas (9-1, 2-0) vs. Nick Roehrick (7-1, 0-0)

Reina Cordoba (10-1, 0-0) vs. Jaimelene Nievera (5-3, 2-1)

Teodor Nikolov (11-2, 0-1) vs. Robin Van Roosmalen (2-0, 0-0)

Johnny Eblen (6-0, 2-0) vs. Ibrahim Mane (7-2, 0-0)

CageRage · April 4, 2021

Bellator 255 Full Card

Main Event

Middleweight Title Fight

Gegard Mousasi (47-7-2, 5-1) vs. John Salter (18-4, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Yoel Romero (13-5, 0-0) vs. Vadim Nemkov (30-7-1, 0-0)

Main Card

Daniel Strauss (26-9, 12-6) vs. Pedro Carvalho (11-4, 2-1)

Vanessa Porto (22-8, 0-0) vs, Mandy Bohm (7-0-1, 1-0)

Sidney Outlaw (15-4, 1-1) vs. Ryan Quinn (14-7-1, 8-1)

Preliminary Card

Alan Omer (24-5, 1-0) vs. John Teixeira (23-5-2, 6-2)

Javy Ayala (11-8, 6-4) vs. Shawn Teed (6-3, 0-1)

Jessica Miele (9-5, 1-2) vs. Marina Mokhnatina (4-2, 0-1)

Guilherme Vasconselos (10-6, 3-3) vs. Walter Gahadza (16-8, 2-3)

Tony Johnson (9-2, 0-0) vs. A.J. Matthews (9-9, 5-7)

Colleen Schneider (11-8, 1-1) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5, 1-1)

Bellator 256 Full Card

Main Event

Women's Featherweight Title

Cris "Cyborg" Justino (23-2-1, 2-0) vs. Julia Budd (14-3, 8-1)

Co-Main Event

Timothy Johnson (15-6, 4-0) vs. Josh Barnett (35-8, 0-0)

Main Card

Leslie Smith (12-8-1, 2-1) vs. Cat Zingano (11-4, 1-0)

Soren Bak (14-1, 1-0) vs. Brent Primus (10-1, 8-1)

Magomed Magomedov (17-1, 1-0) vs. Josh Hill (20-3, 2-0)

Preliminary Card

Iony Razafiarison (6-3, 1-2) vs. Sarah D'Alelio (11-7, 0-0)

Maxim Shvets (17-3, 0-0) vs. Khonry Gracie (2-2, 0-1)

Julius Anglickas (9-1, 2-0) vs. Nick Roehrick (7-1, 0-0)

Reina Cordoba (10-1, 0-0) vs. Jaimelene Nievera (5-3, 2-1)

Teodor Nikolov (11-2, 0-1) vs. Robin Van Roosmalen (2-0, 0-0)

Johnny Eblen (6-0, 2-0) vs. Ibrahim Mane (7-2, 0-0)

mmaaddict · April 5, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;">Bellator 255: Mousasi vs. Salter</div>

<div style="text-align:center;">Preliminary Card</div>

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Ilara Joanne (-480) vs. Colleen Schneider (-380)

The Pitbull Brother trained, Ilara Joanne makes quick work of Colleen Schneider, securing the double leg takedown 30 seconds into the fight and getting the tap a minute later with an arm triangle.

Result: Ilara Joanne wins via Submission at 1:29 of the 1st Round

Middleweight Bout: A.J. Matthews (-110) vs. #19 Tony Johnson (+100)

In Round 1 of the fight the debutant, Tony Johnson gets the better of what was a strictly boxing matchup, landing more and bigger shots than his opponent. A.J. Matthews finally gets his footing a bit in the first minute and a half with a few strong counter shots. Matthews gets over eager though and misses a wild swing that Johnson counters perfectly with two jabs and a massive right hook dropping Matthews and ending the fight with hammerfists.

Result: Tony Johnson wins via TKO at 1:50 of the 2nd Round

Welterweight Bout: Walter Gehadza (-180) vs. Guilherme Vasconcelos (+140)

Not a pretty fight, but it ends quickly. The two exchange strikes before Gehadza slips after missing a kick, Vasconcelos tries to take advantage and they end up in a scramble which Gehadza turns into a North South Choke for the tap.

Result: Walter Gahadza wins via Submission at 1:19 of the 1st Round

Women’s Featherweight Bout: #11 Jessica Miele (-430) vs. Marina Mokhnatkina (+340)

A razor close decision between the two female fighters. Each lady wins one of the first two rounds by getting a takedown and controlling the round. The third is an incredibly close round, but while Miele lands the bigger strikes, it’s Mokhnatkina’s activity and volume that gets the win for her.

Result: Marina Mokhnatkina wins via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x3)

Heavyweight Bout: #8 Javy Ayala (-440) vs. #19 Shawn Teed (+360)

Both guys came into this fight with the same game plan, swing for the fences and try and end it early. Both guys land big shots, but Teed manages to freeze Ayala for a quick moment and capitalize with a crushing right hook and a follow up of ground and pound for the win.

Result: Shawn Teed wins via TKO at 2:44 of the 1st Round

Featherweight Bout: #14 Alan Omer (-450) vs. #15 John Teixeira (+350)

Alan Omer comes in with a very specific game plan in this one, and he sticks to it to a tee to dominate the fight. Omer lands a takedown in each round, and two in the third for good measure. Omer isn’t willing to stand with Teixeira and Teixeira just can’t stop the takedowns as Omer get an easy clean sweep to move to 2-0 in Bellator.

Result: Alan Omer wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Lightweight Bout: #5 Sidney Outlaw (-210) vs. #19 Ryan Quinn (+160)

Sidney Outlaw came in looking to prove a point that he is a legitimate contender in this one. It didn’t get off to a great start though as Quinn dominated round one. The gas tank wasn’t there for Quinn though and Outlaw changed up the plan, looking for takedowns and scoring one in each of the last two rounds to squeak out a win.

Result: Sidney Outlaw wins via Split Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #4 Vanessa Porto (-430) vs. #19 Mandy Bohm (+340)

The undefeated Mandy Bohm stays undefeated in this one. After a slow first round where neither fighter did much, Bohm took control in the last two rounds using wrestling and ground work though and coasted to a clear decision that should really push her up the rankings.

Result: Mandy Bohm wins via Unanimous Decision (29-28 x3)

Featherweight Bout: #5 Daniel Straus vs. #12 Pedro Carvalho

After losing three of his last four fights it was expected that Straus would come in here and use his wrestling against the kickboxing standout, but that wasn’t the case. Straus and Carvalho exchanged strikes for a beautiful seven minutes of fighting. Both men end up wobbly at least once, but it’s a massive left cross from Straus that ends the fight as Straus iron chin wins out again.

Result: Daniel Straus wins via KO at 2:04 of the 2nd Round

Light-Heavyweight Bout: #5 Yoel Romero (-920) vs. #6 Vadim Nemkov (+780)

The betting public steamed the line in this one way up with money on Yoel Romero, and it worked out for them as he did his thing. Romero took a couple shots, but then he dropped Nemkov with a crushing right hook and two shots on the ground for good measure. Romero has arrived.

Result: Yoel Romero wins via TKO at 1:13 of the 1st Round

Middleweight Title Fight: ©Gegard Mousasi (-530) vs. #2 John Salter (+440)

While it was clear that John Salter had earned this opportunity, Gegard Mousasi was just flat out too much for him in this one. Mousasi dominated from the opening bell until the referee mercifully stepped in to stop the ground and pound after Mousasi dropped Salter for the second time in the fight. The champ remains the champ.

Result: Gegard Mousasi wins via TKO at 4:36 of the 1st Round

Post-Fight Press Conference Highlights

• Nate Quarry announced that Daniel Straus and Pedro Carvalho won fight of the night honors, praising the fight as one of the most exciting and entertaining fights he has since in a long time. Straus doubled up on bonuses winning Knockout of the Night also, and Ilara Joanne took home Submission of the Night. Quarry also talked about bonuses that would be handed out to some of the top performers on the card, including Shawn Teed, Gegard Mousasi and more, a practice he intends to continue.

• When asked about who stood out on the card, Quarry was quick to hype up the performance of Ilara Joanne and her grappling display. Quarry also talked about the dominance of Yoel Romero and how he knew the guy had plenty left in the tank and he showed it tonight. Quarry also praised Gegard Mousasi for going out and showing everyone how he’s still one of the best middleweights in the world.

• The media asked who might be next in line to fight Mousasi for the Middleweight title. Mousasi said he’d still love to see Rafael Lovato Jr. be able to return at some point so he can get revenge. He also threw out the idea of Yoel Romero cutting back to Middleweight to fight him, which Romero seemed open too, though he joked about how much he’s enjoyed the extra food. Quarry noted that he has no immediate plans right now, but that there is a whole list of young guys fighting their way up the ladder.

• Nate Quarry also announced that the contract has been signed for Junior dos Santos to make his Bellator debut at Bellator 257 against Fedor. What surprised everyone is when it was announced that it would be a co-main event as the title fight run will keep going and Ryan Bader will be headlining the card defending his heavyweight title against Valentin Moldavsky.

*Just a note, this took me a long time to writeup and I don't have a ton of free time, so it may not be as indepth in the future.*

Prediction Results

CageRage - 9/11

McDojoDelux - 6/11

Vladjarca - 5/11

McDojoDelux · April 5, 2021

Was banking on Nemkov pulling off the upset against Romero.......... Maybe next time

mmaaddict · April 6, 2021

Bellator 256 Pre-Show Press Conference Highlights

- The Co-Main Event of the card stole the show at the press conference as Josh Barnett and Timothy Johnson traded barbs back and forth and drew plenty of laughs.

- The media asked Nate Quarry if the Leslie Smith vs. Cat Zingano fight was a guaranteed number one contender fight and Quarry did state that he has every intention of the winner of that fight facing the winner of the night's main event.

- When asked about Magomed Magomedov who is on the card and how quickly they intend to push him if he wins again, Quarry hypes up his next opponent, Josh Hill, as a bigger test than he's getting credit for. Quarry does say that with another impressive showing it'll be hard to not keep pushing him up the ladder.

- Nate Quarry uses the talk of the Bantamweight contender to lead to an announcement of recent signings news. Quarry leads with the big one announcing that he has struck a deal to make Kyoji Horiguchi an exclusive member of the roster and he will be soon fighting Juan Archuleta for the title. Quarry also announces the signings of Francimar Barroso, Anthony Martin, Ismail Narduiv, Albert Tumenov, Jordan Johnson, Maribek Taisumov, Chris Wade, Andre Harrison and Ray Borg. Quarry says that there is more on the list that they'll see soon.

- Quarry wraps up the presser by releasing the full card for Bellator 257 which we know is headlined by Bader vs. Moldavsky and features the hugely anticipated Fedor vs. dos Santos fight. The full card is listed below:

Bellator 257 Full Card

Main Event

Heavyweight Title

Co-Main Event

#2 Junior dos Santos (21-9, 0-0) vs. #5 Fedor Emelianenko (39-6-1, 3-2)

Main Card

#4 Denise Kielholtz (6-2, 6-1) vs. Bec Rawlings (8-9, 1-0)

#9 Austin Vanderford (10-0, 4-0) vs. #6 Costello Van Steenis (13-2, 5-1)

Valerie Loureda (3-0, 3-0) vs. Helen Harper (4-2, 0-1)

Preliminary Card

#9 Francimar Barroso (24-7-1, 0-0) vs. Ronny Markes (19-8, 0-1)

#11 Leah McCourt (4-1, 3-0) vs. Katharina Lehner (7-3, 0-1)

#12 Erick Silva (21-11-1, 0-2) vs. Matt Secor (9-5, 2-3)

Justin Lawrence (11-5, 3-2) vs. Jeremy Spoon (20-5, 0-1)

#12 Demarte Pena (11-0-2, 0-0) vs. Toby Misech (11-7, 2-1)

Bruna Ellen (5-3, 3-3) vs. Chiara Penco (5-2, 1-0)

CageRage · April 6, 2021

Bellator 257 Full Card

Main Event

Heavyweight Title

© Ryan Bader (27-6-1, 5-1-1) vs. #4 Valentin Moldavsky (11-1, 3-0)

Co-Main Event

#2 Junior dos Santos (21-9, 0-0) vs. #5 Fedor Emelianenko (39-6-1, 3-2)

Main Card

#4 Denise Kielholtz (6-2, 6-1) vs. Bec Rawlings (8-9, 1-0)

#9 Austin Vanderford (10-0, 4-0) vs. #6 Costello Van Steenis (13-2, 5-1)

Valerie Loureda (3-0, 3-0) vs. Helen Harper (4-2, 0-1)

Preliminary Card

#9 Francimar Barroso (24-7-1, 0-0) vs. Ronny Markes (19-8, 0-1)

#11 Leah McCourt (4-1, 3-0) vs. Katharina Lehner (7-3, 0-1)

#12 Erick Silva (21-11-1, 0-2) vs. Matt Secor (9-5, 2-3)

Justin Lawrence (11-5, 3-2) vs. Jeremy Spoon (20-5, 0-1)

#12 Demarte Pena (11-0-2, 0-0) vs. Toby Misech (11-7, 2-1)

Bruna Ellen (5-3, 3-3) vs. Chiara Penco (5-2, 1-0)

McDojoDelux · April 6, 2021

Main Event

Heavyweight Title

© Ryan Bader (27-6-1, 5-1-1) vs. #4 Valentin Moldavsky (11-1, 3-0)

Co-Main Event

#2 Junior dos Santos (21-9, 0-0) vs. #5 Fedor Emelianenko (39-6-1, 3-2)

Main Card

#4 Denise Kielholtz (6-2, 6-1) vs. Bec Rawlings (8-9, 1-0)

#9 Austin Vanderford (10-0, 4-0) vs. #6 Costello Van Steenis (13-2, 5-1)

Valerie Loureda (3-0, 3-0) vs. Helen Harper (4-2, 0-1)

Preliminary Card

#9 Francimar Barroso (24-7-1, 0-0) vs. Ronny Markes (19-8, 0-1)

#11 Leah McCourt (4-1, 3-0) vs. Katharina Lehner (7-3, 0-1)

#12 Erick Silva (21-11-1, 0-2) vs. Matt Secor (9-5, 2-3)

Justin Lawrence (11-5, 3-2) vs. Jeremy Spoon (20-5, 0-1)

#12 Demarte Pena (11-0-2, 0-0) vs. Toby Misech (11-7, 2-1)

Bruna Ellen (5-3, 3-3) vs. Chiara Penco (5-2, 1-0)

mmaaddict · April 12, 2021

Bellator 256: Cyborg vs. Budd II

Friday - March 26, 2021

Fort Collins, CO

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Johnny Eblen (-530) vs. Ibrahim Mane (+450)

The most impressive win so far for Johnny Eblen who is now 7-0 and 3-0 in Bellator. The wrestling standout took Mane down and pounded him out in a hurry.

Result: Johnny Eblen wins via TKO at 2:31 of the 1st Round

Featherweight Bout: Robin von Roosmalen (-120) vs. Teodor Nikolov (-110)

The Croatian wrestler, Nikolov, holds his own on the feet for a little bit, but ultimately pays for not shooting a takedown, getting knocked out with a big head kick.

Result: Robin van Roosmalen wins via KO at 3:49 of the 1st Round

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #11 Reina Cordoba (-600) vs. #12 Jaimelene Nievera (+470)

Nievera overcomes the odds and puts on a striking clinic, battering Cordoba throughout round one before finishing her late in the round.

Result: Jasimelene Nievera wins via TKO at 4:09 of the 1st Round

Light Heavyweight Bout: #14 Julius Anglickas (-140) vs. #12 Nick Roehrick (+110)

After a pretty even round one, the Bellator vet Anglickas started to ramp up the offense on the debutant and then in round three overwhelmed for the finish to move to 3-0 in Bellator.

Result: Julius Anglickas wins via TKO at 2:33 of the 3rd Round

Welterweight Bout: Maxim Shvets (-180) vs. Khonry Gracie (+140)

Gracie controlled the right throughout the first round, thwarting any offense from Shvets and getting the fight to the ground where he was able to maneuver to a Kimura forcing the tap.

Result: Khonry Gracie wins via Submission at 4:39 of the 1st Round

Women’s Featherweight Bout: Sarah D’Alelio (-110) vs. Iony Razafiarison (+100)

The two ladies put on an all out brawl that the fans loved, even if it lacked at times in technique. Ultimately it was a head kick from Razafiarison that ended the fight in round 2.

Result: Ioniy Razafiarison wins via KO at 0:59 of the 2nd Round

Main Card

Bantamweight Bout: #11 Magomed Magomedov (-700) vs. Josh Hill (+550)

The Russian left no doubt about who the winner was, dominating all three rounds with takedowns. The fight still left a little to be desired as Magomedov seemed content to get to the ground and control things without ever really threatening anything close to a finish.

Result: Magomed Magomedov wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Lightweight Bout: #3 Brent Primus (-110) vs. #11 Soren Bak (-110)

There were questions about how the oddsmakers had lined this fight, but they apparently knew something. The Danish Viking got a surprise takedown right out of the gate and was able to work into side control quickly and locked in a Kimura, forcing the submission specialist in Primus to tap out. The winner may not have been shocking, but the way Bak won truly was.

Result: Soren Bak wins via Submission at 1:07 of the 1st Round

Women’s Featherweight Bout: #3 Cat Zingano (-200) vs. #5 Leslie Smith (+200)

In a clash of styles, it was the wrestling of Cat Zingano that won the fight as she controlled the first and third rounds, getting two takedowns in each round with impressive ground and pound as well. Leslie Smith was able to get some offense in during round two, but Zingano did well to hold her own on the feet there as well and avoid any big shots.

Result: Cat Zingano wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Co-Main Event

Heavyweight Bout: #10 Josh Barnett (-390) vs. #3 Timothy Johnson (+310)

The oddsmakers put a surprising amount of faith in Josh Barnett who hasn’t fought in four years, but he proved them right tonight. Barnett put Johnson on his back foot early landing a nice straight right in the first minute. He was then able to secure a takedown and work his expert ground game to secure a kneebar for the submission win.

Result: Josh Barnett wins via Submission at 3:10 of the 1st Round

Main Event

Women’s Featherweight Title Bout: © Cris “Cybrog” Justino (-150 vs. #2 Julia Budd (+150)

Cris Cyborg made sure to make this showing against even more dominant than the first, piecing Budd for almost two rounds before ending the fight with a vicious combo and ground and pound in the final minute of round two. After the fight Cyborg pointed out of the cage at Cat Zingano, who had come back out to watch the fight, to let her know that she would be next.

Result: Cris Cyborg wins via TKO at 4:15 of the 2nd Round

Post-Fight Press Conference Highlights

• Nate Quarry was buzzing at the post-fight press conference telling the media that a fight night that ends with nine finishes in 11 fights is a hell of a night, even if all the performance bonuses are going to break the bank. Quarry noted that the brawl between Razafiarison and D’Alelio would be taking home fight of the night honors, while Julius Anglickas and Josh Barnett would be winning knockout and submission of the night respectively. Meanwhile several other bonuses would be dispensed as well.

• Everyone wanted thoughts from Cat Zingano on the callout from Cyborg. The Alpha was quick to let everyone know she was up to the challenge and had absolutely no fear about stepping in the cage with the champion. When asked for his thoughts on the fight Quarry was beaming as he said he plans to make it happen as quickly as he possibly can.

• Josh Barnett expressed his joy at getting back in the cage and made sure to let people know this wouldn’t be just a one and done matter, but that they could expect to see the Beastmaster back again soon. When asked about the complexion of the Heavyweight division at the moment Quarry states that there are a lot of fun fights to make at the top of the division and that it’s really wide open as far as contenders go.

• When asked if he was disappointed in the performance of Magomed Magomedov, the President of Bellator said it wasn’t the most exciting fight, but it was one of the most dominant. Quarry reminded folks that that killer instinct may still be forming in Magomedov, but that all the skills are there to dominate.

• The other popular talking point of the presser was Soren Bak’s surprising quick win over Brent Primus, a guy who has been a title challenger at times. Quarry said he wondered if he was giving Bak too much of a test too soon with this fight, but obviously this wasn’t the case. Bak said he’s ready for anyone in the division and Quarry agreed that while he has only two fights in Bellator to his name he just beat the number three guy in the division, so it’s hard to say he doesn’t deserve the biggest names.

• Quarry ends the press conference by announcing the main events of Bellator 258 and Bellator 259. Quarry says that Patricio Freire defends his featherweight title in a long anticipated fight with A.J. McKee at Bellator 258. For Bellator 259 we will be getting a double main event with Juliana Velasquez defending her title against Liz Carmouche and Juan Archuleta defending his Bantamweight Title against Kyoji Horiguchi, who Quarry announces has now signed an exclusive contract with Bellator to compete in the Bantamweight division.

Prediction Results

Vladjarca - 7/11

McDojoDelux - 7/11

CageRage - 7/11

vladjarca · April 12, 2021

Bellator 257 Full Card

Main Event

Heavyweight Title

Co-Main Event

#2 Junior dos Santos (21-9, 0-0) vs. #5 Fedor Emelianenko (39-6-1, 3-2)

Main Card

#4 Denise Kielholtz (6-2, 6-1) vs. Bec Rawlings (8-9, 1-0)

#9 Austin Vanderford (10-0, 4-0) vs. #6 Costello Van Steenis (13-2, 5-1)

Valerie Loureda (3-0, 3-0) vs. Helen Harper (4-2, 0-1)

Preliminary Card

#9 Francimar Barroso (24-7-1, 0-0) vs. Ronny Markes (19-8, 0-1)

#11 Leah McCourt (4-1, 3-0) vs. Katharina Lehner (7-3, 0-1)

#12 Erick Silva (21-11-1, 0-2) vs. Matt Secor (9-5, 2-3)

Justin Lawrence (11-5, 3-2) vs. Jeremy Spoon (20-5, 0-1)

#12 Demarte Pena (11-0-2, 0-0) vs. Toby Misech (11-7, 2-1)

Bruna Ellen (5-3, 3-3) vs. Chiara Penco (5-2, 1-0)

mmaaddict · April 13, 2021

Bellator 257 Pre-Fight Press Conference Highlights

- Much of the attention in the press conference centered around the co-main event, rather than the main event. Junior dos Santos and Fedor Emelianenko both expressed having tremendous respect for one another, but both acknowledged how huge this match was. Dos Santos in particular went in depth about how he hopes this fight is the springboard to a title shot and a chance to show the world how much he has left.

- The media asked Ryan Bader about his intentions regarding whether he would continue to fight at Light Heavyweight and Heavyweight. Bader said his focus is on this current match, but he does state that the heavyweight division is just heating up and he sees plenty of challenges within the division ahead.

- When asked about what fights have potential title implications Nate Quarry said the JDS and Fedor has clear title implications, but he also said he would be keeping a very close eye on the women's flyweight fight on the main card and the battle of middleweight prospects. Quarry said he wasn't sure if the winner of Vanderford vs. Van Steenis was quite title shot ready, but that the winner will certainly be getting close.

- Quarry ended the press conference by releasing the full card for Bellator 258 taking place in two more weeks:

Bellator 258 Full Card

Main Event

Featherweight Title

Co-Main Event

#3 Patricky Freire (23-9, 10-6) vs. #2 Maribek Taisumov (27-6, 0-0)

Main Card

Anthony Johnson (22-6) vs. #10 Karl Moore (9-2, 1-0)

#3 Ariene Blencowe (13-8, 6-4) vs. #8 Sinead Kavanagh (7-4, 4-4)

#4 Darrion Caldwell (14-4, 12-3) vs. #5 Brad Katona (8-2, 0-0)

Preliminary Card

#7 Curtis Millender (18-6, 3-3) vs. #15 Neiman Gracie (10-1, 7-1)

Jack May (11-7-1, 1-0-1) vs. Domingos Barros (6-1, 1-1)

Chris Curtis (23-8, 0-0) vs. Justin Burlinson (5-0, 2-0)

Alejandra Lara (8-3, 2-1) vs. Ky Bennett (1-2, 1-2)

Saul Rogers (14-3, 2-1) vs. Cody Bollinger (19-8-1, 0-2)

Dalton Rosta (4-0, 2-0) vs. Taylor Johnson (6-2, 1-1)

vladjarca · April 13, 2021

Bellator 258 Full Card

Main Event

Featherweight Title

Co-Main Event

#3 Patricky Freire (23-9, 10-6) vs. #2 Maribek Taisumov (27-6, 0-0)

Main Card

Anthony Johnson (22-6) vs. #10 Karl Moore (9-2, 1-0)

#3 Ariene Blencowe (13-8, 6-4) vs. #8 Sinead Kavanagh (7-4, 4-4)

#4 Darrion Caldwell (14-4, 12-3) vs. #5 Brad Katona (8-2, 0-0)

Preliminary Card

#7 Curtis Millender (18-6, 3-3) vs. #15 Neiman Gracie (10-1, 7-1)

Jack May (11-7-1, 1-0-1) vs. Domingos Barros (6-1, 1-1)

Chris Curtis (23-8, 0-0) vs. Justin Burlinson (5-0, 2-0)

Alejandra Lara (8-3, 2-1) vs. Ky Bennett (1-2, 1-2)

Saul Rogers (14-3, 2-1) vs. Cody Bollinger (19-8-1, 0-2)

Dalton Rosta (4-0, 2-0) vs. Taylor Johnson (6-2, 1-1)

McDojoDelux · April 13, 2021

Featherweight Title

Co-Main Event

#3 Patricky Freire (23-9, 10-6) vs. #2 Maribek Taisumov (27-6, 0-0)

Main Card

Anthony Johnson (22-6) vs. #10 Karl Moore (9-2, 1-0)

#3 Ariene Blencowe (13-8, 6-4) vs. #8 Sinead Kavanagh (7-4, 4-4)

#4 Darrion Caldwell (14-4, 12-3) vs. #5 Brad Katona (8-2, 0-0)

Preliminary Card

#7 Curtis Millender (18-6, 3-3) vs. #15 Neiman Gracie (10-1, 7-1)

Jack May (11-7-1, 1-0-1) vs. Domingos Barros (6-1, 1-1)

Chris Curtis (23-8, 0-0) vs. Justin Burlinson (5-0, 2-0)

Alejandra Lara (8-3, 2-1) vs. Ky Bennett (1-2, 1-2)

Saul Rogers (14-3, 2-1) vs. Cody Bollinger (19-8-1, 0-2)

Dalton Rosta (4-0, 2-0) vs. Taylor Johnson (6-2, 1-1)

mmaaddict · April 19, 2021

Bellator 257: Bader vs. Moldavsky

Friday - April 2, 2021

Anaheim, CA

Preliminary Card

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Chiara Penco (-120) vs. Bruna Ellen (+100)

This was a grappling clinic by Chiara Penco who took Ellen down fairly easily in all three rounds and in the third was able to get the back and tap her out with a rear naked choke.

Result: Chiara Penco wins via Submission at 1:39 of the 3rd Round

Bantamweight Bout: Demarte Pena (-510) vs. Toby Miesch (+400)

The Bellator debut was of Demarte Pena was supposed to be one of the highlights of the preliminary card, but it was Toby Miesch with the highlight. After a close first round, Miesch gets loose in the second with his striking and ends up putting together a nasty combination that ends with a vicious right cross that puts Pena out cold.

Result: Toby Miesch wins via KO at 4:32 of the 3rd Round

Featherweight Bout: Justin Lawrence (-280) vs. Jeremy Spoon (+220)

The first two rounds are really close, with Lawrence likely getting the first with his striking and Spoon using a takedown to secure the second. Lawrence opened up in the third though and Spoon really didn’t have an answer for it.

Result: Justin Lawrence wins via UD (29-28 x3)

Welterweight Bout: Erick Silva (-570) vs. Matt Secor (+450)

The odds felt off in this one and they were as the fight was razor close. Silva seemed to win the first round, and Secor decisively won the third, leaving it to the second round. Secor did enough in the second scoring a takedown and landing more volume to take the fight on two judges scorecards for the second big upset of the night.

Result: Matt Secor wins via SD (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Women’s Featherweight Bout: Leah McCourt (-740) vs. Katharina Lehner (+600)

This was not a night for big favorites and McCourt almost fell to the same curse, but squeaked it out. McCourt dominated in round one, but lost the second when she couldn’t score a takedown. The judges were split on the third for some reason, but McCourt was the rightful winner, albeit a close one.

Result: Leah McCourt wins via SD (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Heavyweight Bout: Ronny Markes (-110) vs. Francimar Barroso (+100)

The veteran Barroso’s hopes of a run in the Bellator Heavyweight division was squashed in a hurry as Ronny Markes won all three rounds of this one clearly with a mix of striking and grappling and overall cage control.

Result: Ronny Markes wins via UD (30-27 X3)

Main Card

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Valerie Loureda (-230) vs. Helen Harper (+180)

The 22 year old flyweight prospect continues to shine as she put on a striking clinic against Helen Harper. Loureda finishes with a flurry of punches that she follows up with a rib shattering kick to the side.

Result: Valerie Loureda wins via TKO at 2:51 of the 1st Round

Middleweight Bout: Costello Van Steenis (-180) vs. Austin Vanderford (+140)

Austin Vanderford was able to get a couple of takedowns and made a go of it, but the striking of Costello Van Steenis was just too much for him. Van Steenis made sure to leave no doubt when he came out in the third and absolutely wrecked Vanderford for five minutes. It was a surprise to see the fight make it to the bell.

Result: Costello Van Steenis wins via UD (30-27, 29-28, 29-27)

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Denise Kielholtz (-610) vs. Bec Rawlings (+480)

Another favorite takes the hit here, but the journey was absolutely insane. Rawlings and Kielholtz traded big shots for ten minutes straight in the first two rounds. It was incredible that Rawlings even made it out of the first round. When it got to round three though Kielholtz gas tank couldn’t keep up and Rawlings was still rolling, finishing the fight with a flurry against the cage.

Result: Bec Rawlings wins via KO at 2:51 of the 3rd Round

Co-Main Event

Heavyweight Bout: Junior dos Santos (-530) vs. Fedor Emelianenko (+440)

Junior dos Santos proved he still has something to give, but Emelianenko did not go down without a fight. Dos Santos put on a show in round one, but Fedor was able to rebound and go blow for blow in round two. Dos Santos finished the fight in the third though with a wicked uppercut.

Result: Junior dos Santos wins via KO at 2:56 of the 3rd Round

Main Event

Bellator Heavyweight Title Bout: Ryan Bader (-840) vs. Valentin Moldavsky (+670)

It was a battle of American wrestling versus Russian sambo and on this night of huge upsets, the Sambo specialist took the win. Both guys were able to secure takedowns at different points in the fight, but it was Moldavsky who was able to do the damage on the ground, while Bader’s ground offense was neutralized by the challenger. Ladies and Gentlemen we have a new Heavyweight Champion!

Result: Valentin Moldavsky wins via UD (48-47 x3)

Post-Fight Press Conference

• The media room was buzzing after this one, with the conversation torn largely between the amazing JDS/Fedor fight and the shocking upset in the main event. A common theme of discussion is what is going to happen next in the heavyweight division. Quarry kept his cards close to the vest, but he did note there are things to sort out, including waiting to see how badly Ryan Bader injured his hand in the main event. Quarry does note that Junior dos Santos, and Josh Barnett are firmly in the mix in the title picture as well as Bader. Moldavsky states he always knew he’d be champ and he intends to keep the belt for a long time, no matter who the challengers are.

• There was also a whole lot of praise for the Kielholtz and Rawlings fight which did win fight of the night. Rawlings was wearing the damage from the fight during the presser and Kielholtz we were told was at the hospital getting checked out. Rawlings said she intends to keep putting on great fights like this, but she also has her eyes set on a title run. Rowdy Bec tells Quarry to give her another top 5 girl next time and watch her work.

• The Bellator President also praised the work of Costello Van Steenis who continues to look like he may be the future of the Middleweight division. Van Steenis tells the media that he feels like he is ready for Gegard Mousasi and a shot at the title right now. Quarry notes that he does make a compelling case, but there are other options to consider there. It’s hard to imagine Van Steenis not fighting for the title at some point in the next year though.

• Quarry also announced Toby Miesch and Chiara Penco as winners of the KO and Submission of the night respectively. Quarry appeared to be quite excited about the talent coming along in the women’s flyweight division that has been on display the last several cards, including this one with Penco and Loureda.

• As always Nate Quarry ended the presser by announcing some more upcoming fights. Quarry noted that bout agreements have been signed for Bellator 260 to feature a double title fight main event with Douglas Lima taking on Yaroslav Amosov and Vadim Nemkov facing off with Corey Anderson. Quarry also noted that Bellator would be returning to Europe in June with a stacked card that will feature Lytoo Machida taking on Anatoly Tokov, Brett Johns against newcomer Jarred Brooks and Paul Daley facing off with another newcomer in Ismail Naurdiev.

Prediction Results

vladjarca - 7/11 (Props on picking some of the wilder upsets)

McDojoDelux - 7/11

CageRage - 5/11

mmaaddict · April 24, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;">Bellator 258: Freire vs. McKee

Friday - April 16, 2021

Baltimore, MD</div>

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Taylor Johnson (-250) vs. Dalton Rosta (+190)

This was a wrestling clinic for the ATT prospect Dalton Rosta. The young middleweight got six takedowns in total and did some serious ground and pound work every round in route to clear cut decision.

Result: Dalton Rosta wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Featherweight Bout: Sault Rogers (-260) vs. Cody Bollinger (+200)

The wrestling of Cody Bollinger looked like it was going to get him an upset after helping him take the first two rounds. Rogers power won out in the end though as he caught Bollinger in the third with a stiff jab and cross combination that knocked Bollinger down and he finished him with ground and pound.

Result: Sault Rogers wins via TKO at 2:04 of the 3rd Round

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Alejandra Lara (-160) vs. Ky Bennett (+120)

Ky Bennett can take a punch, no one can question that, and Lara was landing them in bunches on her in this fight. Somehow none of the judges scored a 10-8 round, but Lara was clearly dominant.

Result: Alejandra Lara wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Middleweight Bout: Justin Burlinson (-780) vs. Chris Curtis (+620)

No one could blame fans for thinking a 5-0 fighter shouldn’t be favored by so much, but Justin Burlinson proved why he was. Burlinson rocked Curtis on the feet early and then finished him quickly on the ground for his third first round stoppage in three Bellator fights.

Result: Justin Burlinson wins via TKO at 2:13 of the 1st Round

Heavyweight Bout: Domingos Barros (-530) vs. Jack May (+420)

Another impressive display of wrestling as Barros scores six takedowns in the fight and he doesn’t just settle for the takedown, he goes to work on the ground. It’s a wonder that Jack May made it to the end of the fight.

Result: Domingos Barros wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Welterweight Bout: #8 Curtis Millender (-170) vs. #15 Neiman Gracie (+130)

World class jiu-jitsu can only get you so far if you can’t strike and we saw it here. Millender pieced Gracie up on the feet before knocking him out cold with a cross.

Result: Curtis Millender wins via KO at 3:39 of the 1st Round

Main Card

Bantamweight Bout: #4 Darrion Caldwell (-110) vs. #5 Brad Katona (+100)

There was a lot of excitement for the debut of Brad Katona in Bellator, but Darrion Caldwell returned to his wrestling roots to spoil the arrival. Caldwell took Katona down in each of the rounds and kept him there once he had him down. Caldwell has had some recent struggles, but he’s made the first step to a new win streak now.

Result: Darrion Caldwell wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Women’s Featherweight Bout: #3 Arlene Blencowe (-230) vs. #8 Sinead Kavanagh (+180)

The loss to Cyborg last time out didn’t have any lasting effects on Arlene Blencowe as the City Kickboxing standout cruised to an easy unanimous decision by mixing up her striking and wrestling in each round.

Result: Arlene Blencowe wins via Unanimous Decision (30-27 x3)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Anthony Johnson (-150) vs. #10 Karl Moore (+110)

Coming back after four years out of the sport Anthony Johnson came in and did just what was expected of him, throw bombs and knock a dude out. Moore was tentative to engage and Johnson picked his spots nicely before landing a huge cross to put Moore out cold.

Result: Anthony Johnson wins via KO at 2:26 of the 1st Round

Co-Main Event

Lightweight Bout: #3 Patricky Freire (-110) vs. #2 Mairbek Taisumov (+100)

The assumption was that Mairbek Taisumov would try and wrestle Patricky Freire to neutralize his striking, but Taisumov instead went toe to toe on the feet and came out with a win. Both guys were landing good shots, but Taisumov was landing more and cleaner. Freire couldn’t keep up as round two wound down and Taisumov finished him off with a head kick to drop Freire and ground and pound to win it.

Result: Mairbek Taisumov wins via TKO at 4:15 of the 2nd Round

Main Event

What a war between the champ and number one challenger living up to the expectations that have been set. Freire and McKee went all five rounds despite both guys landing some really strong shots in the fight. Freire and McKee each won one round decisively, but the other three were all close and while most saw McKee as the winner, including two judges, one judge did score it for the champ. Ultimately though A.J. McKee stays unbeaten and takes home the belt.

Result: A.J. Mckee wins via Split Decision (49-46, 49-46, 47-48)

Post-Fight Press Conference

• The first questions of the night obviously had to do with the main event and whether we’d be seeing a rematch of the close bout. McKee chimed in and said he’ll beat Pitbull again if he has too, but the belt isn’t going anywhere for a long time. Pitbull talked about having another belt still to defend and being unsure of what’s next, but stating there will be a rematch at some point in time. Quarry agreed with the sentiment of Pitbull, he says he wants to see the Lightweight belt defended next, but that this is a rematch that will have to happen at some point.

• When asked about the debut of Mairbek Taisumov and his future in Bellator the President of the company gave the Russian a glowing review and said it makes a lot of sense to him that Taisumov face Patricio Freire next and threw in that it would give Pitbull the chance to avenge his brother’s loss.

• Anthony Johnson spoke of hoe good it felt to be back in the cage again and told everyone that this was just the beginning of what he was going to do in Bellator. Johnson was asked about facing the winner of Nemkov and Anderson coming up, Johnson said he can’t wait for a shot at the title, but he also wants a shot at Yoel Romero to see just who the hardest hitter in MMA really is.

• Nate Quarry was beaming as he talked about how exciting the young middleweight division is and how full of prospects the group is. Quarry praised the performances of Dalton Rosta and Justin Burlinson and said when you add guys like this to the mix with Costello Van Steenis, Johnny Eblen and Anatoly Tokov the future is really bright.

• Darrion Caldwell is asked what he’d like to do next and he acknowledges he has a bit more work to do before getting another shot at the title. Caldwell said he has found his roots once again and he will hold the Bantamweight Title again. Caldwell said he’d love to face the winner of the upcoming Brett Johns and Jarred Brooks fight.

Prediction Results

Vladjarca - 9/11

McDojoDelux - 9/11

mmaaddict · April 27, 2021

Bellator Breaking News Press Conference

***A somber Bellator President takes his place behind the microphone to start the press conference. The media all seem to know what the topic is, but aren't sure what the response from Nate Quarry and Bellator will be.***

Quarry: As you are well aware by now, there was an incident last night involving our Middleweight Champoion, Gegard Mousasi. Late last night Gegard was arrested on charges of assault after an argument at a bar turned violent.

Unlike some places we are not going to sweep this under the rug or ignore it. I've spoken with Gegard who spent the night in jail and was bonded out this morning. Gegard is remorseful for his actions, and noted he is going to be participating in treatment to address his drinking.

The legal world will do it's thing and Gegard is prepared to face whatever comes. Bellator has made the decision that we will be stripping him of his title effective immediately and he will be facing a one year suspension, with the stipulation that he does in fact complete treatment.

The Middleweight Title will be determined in a four man tournament featuring Lyoto Machida and Anatoly Tokov which has already been booked, and Costello Van Steenis against Lorenz Larkin who is moving up from Welterweight. That fight will get booked in the very near future.

Now to end things on a positive note, we're unveiling the full card and bout order for Bellator 259.

***Quarry shifts gears matter of factly and without questions on the Mousasi incident. ***

Bellator 259 Full Card

Main Event

Bantamweight Title

Co-Main Event

Women's Flyweight Title

Main Card

#4 Benson Henderson (28-10, 5-5) vs. #9 Chris Wade (17-6, 0-0)

#4 Khalid Murtazaliev (14-2, 0-0) vs. #8 Mike Shipman (14-3, 5-2)

#6 Dovletzhan Yagshimuradov (18-5-1, 0-0) vs. #11 Jordan Johnson (12-2-1, 0-0)

Preliminary Card

#14 Jordan Mein (31-13, 0-1) vs. Jon Manley (13-6, 2-0)

#9 Lena Ovchynnikova (12-6, 2-3) vs. Melissa Martinez (7-0, 0-0)

Gokhan Saricam (5-1, 1-1) vs. Davion Franklin (2-0, 1-0)

#12 Dominic Mazzotta (15-3, 1-2) vs. James Gallagher (11-1, 8-0)

#14 Amber Leibrock (4-4, 1-3) vs. Larissa Pacheco (13-4, 0-0)

Alex Polizzi (7-1, 1-1) vs. Lee Chadwick (26-15-1, 2-2)

McDojoDelux · April 27, 2021

Main Event

Bantamweight Title

Co-Main Event

Women's Flyweight Title

Main Card

#4 Benson Henderson (28-10, 5-5) vs. #9 Chris Wade (17-6, 0-0)

#4 Khalid Murtazaliev (14-2, 0-0) vs. #8 Mike Shipman (14-3, 5-2)

#6 Dovletzhan Yagshimuradov (18-5-1, 0-0) vs. #11 Jordan Johnson (12-2-1, 0-0)

Preliminary Card

#14 Jordan Mein (31-13, 0-1) vs. Jon Manley (13-6, 2-0)

#9 Lena Ovchynnikova (12-6, 2-3) vs. Melissa Martinez (7-0, 0-0)

Gokhan Saricam (5-1, 1-1) vs. Davion Franklin (2-0, 1-0)

#12 Dominic Mazzotta (15-3, 1-2) vs. James Gallagher (11-1, 8-0)

#14 Amber Leibrock (4-4, 1-3) vs. Larissa Pacheco (13-4, 0-0)

Alex Polizzi (7-1, 1-1) vs. Lee Chadwick (26-15-1, 2-2)

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